Putin and Hu meeting in Moscow
Moscow, 1 July 2005 (RFE/RL) -- Russia and China issued a veiled criticism of the United States today, criticizing states that seek to dominate global affairs.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Hu Jintao signed a joint declaration in Moscow saying "international society should rid itself of striving for monopoly and domination in international affairs."

Putin says the document reflects Beijing and Moscow's stance on global politics: "The declaration reflects Russia and China's consonant approaches to the fundamental issues of world politics. We understand well that a neighborly, partnership relationship between Russia and China is important both for our peoples and the whole world."

Putin also says that Russia and China are developing good economic and security relations. Hu later said that Putin has accepted an invitation to visit China next year. Hu is in Moscow for four days to strengthen bilateral ties.